'17 Silverado

2017 Chevrolet Silverado Spied in MichiganMidcycle Update May Include New Powertrains

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Recently spotted testing in Michigan, the Chevrolet Silverado looks like it might be getting some cosmetic updates for the 2017 model year.

According to various sources, the new Silverado’s appearance may bring it into line with the midsize Colorado, while providing some distance from the Silverado 2500HD and 3500HD. Looking closely at the spy photography, that might be true, as the headlights look like they might abandon the current model’s stacked design in favor of a single, horizontal headlamp featuring multiple elements. Additionally, a thin, wide turn signal looks like it takes up residence under the headlights, rather than beside them as on the current model. That move may establish some family resemblance with the Colorado.

A new hood and front fenders are reshaped for better aero efficiency. There's also some talk that the front sheetmetal will be all-aluminum (previously, only the hood was made from the lightweight material). Around back, new taillamps look to adopt more of a high-tech appearance, but it's not immediately clear what changes they'll take. The new Silvy will likely get interior updates as well, helping it stay in the hunt with the all-new F-150 and very nice Ram 1500. When it was introduced for 2014, the current Silverado brought exceptional levels of interior comfort and refinement to the fullsize-pickup segment, and any updates will help it remain competitive.

However, most significantly, the new Silverado might get some powertrain updates to increase its fuel efficiency and capability. Chief among the rumored changes is a new 10-speed automatic transmission, which is being co-developed with Ford. If the autobox is tuned for smooth shifts, the added gear ratios could make extremely low-rpm freeway cruising a possibility, helping increase the Silverado’s class-leading V-8 fuel economy.

Another unsubstantiated rumor we’ve heard is the development of a twin-turbo V-6 motor for the Silverado. While we don’t know if we believe it’ll happen for 2017, such a motor might give Ford’s EcoBoost engine a run for its money. One option GM could use for this engine is the recently introduced 3.0L V-6 from the Cadillac CT6 sedan. In that application, the engine will make about 400 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque, but retuned for less peak power, the engine could make an F-150–matching 420 lb-ft in the Silverado.